Dalby if you dare?

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This year’s ‘Fear in the Forest’ Halloween event will take place later this month at the North Yorkshire Moors beauty spot of Dalby Forest, which is managed by the Forestry Commission.

The event sees the next generation of young actors from the Yorkshire Coast College performing plays in a variety of locations within the forest. Scares, stares and standing hairs will plague all those who venture along a guided trail that takes in the haunted playground, the tunnel of terror, some terrifying tales and a little cryptish comedy.

Witches, vampires, zombies and crazy clowns will descend on all those unsuspecting souls that dare to venture into Dalby this Halloween. However, even these grizzly ghouls will tremble if faced with ‘Lumbering Jack’, a gruesome and tortured Forestry Commission soul that has wandered the forest for nearly a hundred years. There will be nowhere to hide.

Becky Mayo, Dalby Forest Centre Manager said:

“It’s a real pleasure for us to welcome back the students and staff from Yorkshire Coast College. They really add that little something special each year they perform. Both Yorkshire Coast College and the Forestry Commission work closely together to make sure that the audience can have a great time and enjoy being scared in a safe, fun environment. It’s a magical time of year in the forest and the autumn colours really add another dimension to the event.”

"The students of Yorkshire Coast College have been working hard creating and rehearsing new plays and we will have a dark secret from Dalby's past which will be uncovered. It's important that you don't stray from the path. There may be some vampires on the loose so be careful who you trust; witches who, if they catch you, may just try to put you into their cauldron; and a little girl who has a friend who you don't want to upset.

“We work on several community based projects throughout the year and continue to create new and exciting performances each time."

Adding to a supernatural evening you can get up close and personal with captive bats, have a go at some ‘Creepy Crafts’ or grab a bite to eat in the Dalby Café. Guided walks start at 5.30pm with the last walk at 8pm, each lasting about 40 minutes. The walks are suitable for children 5+ but not suitable for pushchairs/wheelchairs. Booking for this event is online at www.forestry.gov.uk/dalbyforest and will cost is £6 per person including free parking.

3. The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Further information can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk/england